Coriant Sets New Course and Vision for Optical Networks

Enters the optical networking industry as game-changer

ANAHEIM, CA: March 18, 2013 - Coriant, today announced its plans to enter the optical networking industry at OFC/NFOEC, the world's leading event for advancing optical solutions. The company plans to become a game-changer in the optical industry. The Optical Networks business unit of Nokia Siemens Networks would transfer to Coriant after the closing of the planned transaction between Marlin Equity Partners and Nokia Siemens Networks, which was announced on December 3, 2012. The deal is expected to close in the first half of 2013.

Coriant is introducing its plans to accelerate leadership and innovation in the optical networking market, unleashing a vision for reshaping optical networks for operators and their customers. Visit Coriant at OFC/NFOEC at booth #3900.

Operators are beginning the transition from a relatively static 10G world to an era of exponential and dynamic traffic growth driven by concurrent demand for mobility, video and cloud services and applications. This hypergrowth in demand will fundamentally transform optical network architectures and service delivery strategies for the next decade. Positioned to maximize customer value in the era of hypergrowth, Coriant would bring to market proven 100G/OTN scalability, intelligent control, and extensive automation capabilities with a software-defined, end-to-end approach for more agile service creation.

"With plans to help operators manage costs and complexity as optical networks scale, Coriant is expected to enter the market with proven strengths and a compelling vision for agile, end-to-end service delivery powered by software-defined intelligence," said Herbert Merz, designated President and CEO of Coriant. "Coriant will redefine optical networks for the hypergrowth era."

After the closing of the planned transaction between Nokia Siemens Networks and Marlin Equity Partners, Coriant would leverage 30 years of German engineering excellence and quality, distinguished by the highest-performing 100G solution. Coriant would begin its journey as the preferred global supplier to leading network operators in six continents and more than 100 countries.

"We are excited to start working with Coriant as strong player in the optical networking industry," stated Erik Hallberg, President of TeliaSonera International Carrier (TSIC). "We are convinced that Coriant will provide us with the leading technology and service delivery capabilities that allow us to deliver a superior end-user experience. We are looking forward to a strategic partnership with Coriant."

"We believe in the long-term value that Coriant can bring to its Tier 1 customer base as the optical market crosses an unprecedented infection point and industry dynamics pave the way for a new market leader," said Patrick DiPietro, Operating Partner, Marlin Equity Partners. "We are tremendously excited to be working with a team recognized for its optical networking expertise and leadership, and we are committed to providing the financial strength and resources necessary to ensure Coriant's success."

Doug Bayerd, a principal at Marlin Equity Partners added, "We plan to build Coriant into a solid market leader through both, organic growth opportunities and additional acquisitions in the space."

About Coriant

Coriant plans to become a game-changer in the optical industry. The Nokia Siemens Networks Optical Networks business unit would transfer to Coriant after the closing of the planned transaction between Nokia Siemens Networks and Marlin Equity Partners announced on December 3, 2012. The company will be headquartered in Munich. Learn more at www.coriant.com

About Marlin Equity Partners

Marlin Equity Partners is a global private investment firm with over $1 billion of capital under management. The firm is focused on providing corporate parents, shareholders and other stakeholders with tailored solutions that meet their business and liquidity needs. Marlin invests in businesses across multiple industries where its capital base, industry relationships and extensive network of operational resources significantly strengthens a company's outlook and enhances value. Since its inception, Marlin, through its group of funds and related companies, has successfully completed over 60 acquisitions. The firm is headquartered in Los Angeles, California with an additional office in London. For more information, please visit www.marlinequity.com.